Lori Cox selected for Excellence in Health Advancement and Community Engagement Award
Lori Cox, a nurse practitioner in neurological surgery, has received the Excellence in Health Advancement and Community Engagement Award for the first quarter of 2026.
An Office of Health Advancement and Community Engagement selection committee chose Cox for her leadership in workforce development and fostering an inclusive and supportive health care environment.
Advancing the critical care workforce
As program director of the Critical Care Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship, a role she originated, Cox works to strengthen critical care education and professional engagement across the health system.
She actively participates in recruitment efforts, representing the fellowship at events and speaking annually to students in the Penn State College of Medicine Physician Assistant program about the value of advanced critical care training. She also recruits candidates from the Penn State Ross and Carol Neese College of Nursing Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.
Cox’s efforts have elevated the reputation of the fellowship, the selection committee wrote, noting it was recently selected as one of the few programs to host a U.S. Army advanced practice provider fellow, providing high-acuity care training to physician assistants serving in the military.
Mentoring advanced practice providers
Cox has created an infrastructure to unite and support critical care advanced practice providers across the health system. She has also built a model for growth through preceptor training, a dedicated advisory board and opportunities for advanced practice providers to lecture and lead. She developed Critical Care Advanced Practice Providers Grand Rounds to promote learning and engagement and improve climate and belonging. Prioritizing regular check-ins, she offers support as fellows navigate the challenges of critical care.
Improving care for all
Cox’s emphasis on hands-on learning through simulation workshops, labs and courses enhance advanced practice providers’ confidence and competence, improving patient safety and experience. She has incorporated education on caring for diverse patient populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, equipping fellows to provide inclusive care.
She contributes to community engagement and health equity efforts by organizing annual diaper drives benefiting local families in need and serving on the Advanced Practice Committee of the Office of Health Advancement and Community Engagement.
Cox identified her hidden hero as Maryjane Bijelic, lead advanced practice provider in neurological surgery. Bijelic is a steadfast supporter of initiatives that foster her professional growth.
About the award
The Office of Health Advancement and Community Engagement is honored to oversee the Excellence in Health Advancement and Community Engagement Award. A subcommittee reviews all nominations and chooses the top candidate.
Employees can email ohace@pennstatehealth.psu.edu to nominate colleagues who enhance workforce development, organizational climate and belonging, community engagement or compliance towards a more inclusive health care, scientific and teaching environment. Include a 500-word or less description of their achievements.
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